Update on the Status of Mass Attendance and non-sacramental gatherings in Region I of Illinois

Date: October 1, 2020

Bishop David Malloy issued a letter to all parish priests and administrators today updating them on the current status of parish operations in light of Governor JB Pritzker’s new directives in regard to the ongoing mitigation of the COVID-19 virus.

The directives apply only to the nine counties of the Rockford Diocese included in Region I of the Restore Illinois plan. McHenry and Kane Counties are not affected.

Catholic faithful are reminded that the following guidelines are still in effect for all Catholics.

• All vulnerable individuals with underlying health conditions, compromised immune systems, those aged 65 and older and anyone feeling sick are asked to please stay home and those individuals may watch Masses on television or online and make a spiritual communion.

• A dispensation from the obligation to attend Holy Mass has been granted and still in effect during this pandemic until further notice. However, it is suggested that Catholics unable to publicly participate in Mass should do so through broadcast or online Masses and make a sincere spiritual communion.

• All those attending Mass must adhere to the requirements of social distancing, wearing of masks and proper sanitation before and after Mass.


Click here to read the letter
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